Woodworking/Tool and Workshop Maintenance

In order to prolong the life of one's tools one must apply oil, wax, or some other treatment after every use. This is especially important for metal tools because without it, they will rust. Wooden tools (or tool handles etc.) will also benefit from regular attention in this way.

The general method is to: Firstly ensure that the tool is completely free of rust and moisture; Secondly apply (via rag, brush, or some other means) the chosen product to the necessary surfaces of the tool.

Later, before use, all traces (or, only build-up) should be removed with a clean rag and the tool sharpened as usual.

The questions of: what product to use; with what, where, and how often to apply it; how to remove it; and the benefits and pitfalls of the various methods will be dealt with below. Keep in mind that, as with every woodworking topic, there are a great number of different, and often contradictory, methods; the one you settle on should suit your tools, timber, environment, and budget.

A thread from Woodwork Forums, an Australian site, in which participants detail their personal methods for oiling/waxing tools after use. (The link is to the 'printable version', with all post on one page.)